When Climb Credit Union employees face a spouse’s cancer treatment, a loved one’s hospitalization, or even a major, unexpected car repair, they don’t do so alone.
At Climb Credit Union, the organization’s commitment to staff empowerment and growth helps carry employees through their most challenging moments, when the company’s Employee PROMISE Loan program offers staff a zero-interest, no-questions-asked loan to help them deal with financial emergencies.
“The stories we’ve heard speak volumes,” said Carrie Langgard, president and CEO of Climb Credit Union. “Hearing an employee say, ‘This program shows how much the credit union cares about me and helps me succeed,’ is exactly why the program exists. Moments like these remind me that our culture is defined by empowerment and compassion in action.”
The Employee PROMISE Loan program is just one of the ways that Climb Credit Union has built an environment where employees feel supported, respected, and empowered, a culture thatap helped the organization thrive for nearly 75 years. Itap no surprise that the Denver, Colorado financial institution is a 2026 Denver Post Top Workplace, marking the third year in a row the organization has received the honor.
“The award tells the world that Climb Credit Union is a place where people matter, and we truly believe that here,” Langgard said. “We work hard to cultivate a culture rooted in caring, belonging, innovation, empowerment, determination, transparency, and authenticity. This award is proof that those values aren’t aspirational, they are foundational.”
A Culture of Empowerment
At the core of Climb Credit Union’s workplace is a mission of empowerment, a value that drives the organization’s decisions, employee support initiatives, and member service.
That mission is backed by Climb’s operational “PROMISE values”: personal, respect, our community, members, innovation, support, and empowerment.
“These values shape how we show up for one another,” Langgard said. “We listen openly, share transparently, collaborate generously, and give employees the tools, trust, and autonomy to grow.”
The PROMISE values are the inspiration behind not only the PROMISE Loan Program, but Climb Credit Union’s investment in employee development. Climb employees can access programs for emerging leaders, mentorship connections, job shadowing opportunities, and financial wellness initiatives, and can even become certified credit union financial counselors.
As Climb’s team is empowered to grow, learn, and develop, the credit union’s members reap the benefits.
“When we create an environment where people feel supported and inspired to reach higher, they bring that same energy to our members and community,” Langgard said.
The Secret to Longevity
Since its 1951 founding, Climb Credit Union has navigated several mergers and expanded its ability to serve diverse communities across Denver, Colorado Springs, and Grand Junction.
“Our history reminds us that progress is built on partnership, that innovation must serve people, and that our commitment to empowering members’ financial journeys is as important now as it was in 1951,” Langgard said.
The credit union’s decades-long evolution has prepared the organization for its latest venture: a that became official in January 2026.
The merger will deliver more robust products and services for members, who will enjoy benefits like enhanced digital banking. Employees, meanwhile, will be offered broader career pathways, stronger training programs, and a commitment to cross-credit union collaboration.
“What excites me most about our merger with Community Choice Credit Union is the opportunity to elevate what we’ve always done best, which is empowering people,” Langgard said. “By coming together, we’re able to expand our reach, strengthen our resources, and provide an even higher level of support to our members and employees.”
A continued tradition of growth and expansion is only possible because of Climb’s commitment to people, Langgard said. Through decades of technological changes and evolving services, Climb’s focus remains on empowering employees — and the members who trust Climb with their financial futures.
While Climb Credit Union celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, the organization will also celebrate those loyal members through member appreciation initiatives and new tools that will enhance the digital banking experience.
As the organization looks forward to its next few decades, the key values that have made Climb Credit Union a top workplace will continue to play a critical role in its success.
“As we blend our 75‑year legacy with the exciting opportunities from the merger, the next chapter of Climb will be defined by purpose, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to the people we serve,” Langgard said.
The news and editorial staffs of The Denver Post had no role in this postap preparation.
